Published: March 24, 2026

Read Time: 2 minutes

Steelcase Showdown: Leap V2 vs. Gesture vs. Criterion – Which Chair Is Best?

When it comes to ergonomic office seating, Steelcase constantly produces highly sought after task chairs. But with multiple strong options on the table, the question becomes: which Steelcase chair model is right for your workspace?

In the used furniture market, there are three models we see a lot; the Leap V2, Gesture, and Criterion. Each one brings something different to the table, which is why we’re going to break it down today.

A used Steelcase Leap V2, available for sale in used condition at Office Furniture Resources (online or showrooms in Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison).

Why we love the Leap V2: It’s a dependable classic

One of the most sought after chairs in the used furniture market, the Leap lasts extremely long and it’s easy to repair or find replacement parts if ever needed

It has impeccable all-day ergonomic support, great for long hours at your desk

Adjustable lumbar & posture support among other numerous adjustment features

Supportive and structured feel, if you prefer an all-cushion desk chair the Leap may be worth a try

All Black Steelcase Gesture High Performance Ergonomic Desk Chair in used secondhand condition, available now at Office Furniture Resources, a full-service office furniture dealership in the Midwest.

Why we love the Gesture: It’s extremely versatile

While this is the newest model of the three, the Gesture has been dubbed ‘the best office chair’ by NYT Wirecutter every year since 2015

It has a sleek, modern look that gives any office space an impressive look

Best for multi-device work, you can perform a variety of tasks with the Gesture

The arms have unique 360° adjustability

Flexible and adaptive support

A black retro pattern used Steelcase Criterion desk chair available on sale at Office Furniture Resources, a full-service furniture dealership with retail showroom locations in Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison WI.

Why we love the Criterion: It’s reliable, simple, and the most affordable

The Criterion’s traditional look may deter some, but these chairs are durable, long lasting, and best of all – budget friendly

Like the Leap V2, it has a thick cushion back and seat

Many adjustable features such as adjustable arm rests, seat height, seat depth, and seat angle

Many options available on the used furniture market – currently we have hundreds of Criterions in fun patterns and colors

There is no perfect chair, it all depends on your needs and which one suits your work the best. This breakdown might help you in your chair search:

Leap V2: Best for ergonomic precision and posture support

Gesture: Best for flexibility and modern work styles

Criterion: Best for value and simplicity

Interested in any of these models? Contact us today!

Second hand Steelcase Answer cubicles configured in a Midwestern office space with used Steelcase Leap V2 desk chairs as office task seating. — OFR Steelcase Answer cubicles configured to make the most of a small space.

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Leap V1, Leap V2, Gesture, Amia, Criterion and more at Office Furniture Resources. Our inventory is always changing, but expect spectacular deals on commercial-grade used Steelcase products.

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Contributor

Clare McGinnis

Since starting at OFR in 2025, Clare has had the pleasure of authoring digital content for Office Furniture Resources.